Antalya/Side: Green Canyon Day Trip with Boat Tour and Lunch

Antalya/Side: Green Canyon Day Trip with Boat Tour and Lunch — An Honest Look at a Nature-Filled Adventure

If you’re exploring southern Turkey, chances are you’ll hear about the Green Canyon—an emerald-hued reservoir surrounded by steep cliffs and lush forests. This tour promises a full day of scenic beauty, boat rides, swimming, and local cuisine, making it a popular choice for travelers craving a mix of relaxation and adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what you can expect—and what to watch out for.

What We Like About This Tour
First, the scenery is genuinely stunning. You’ll cruise past towering cliffs, emerald waters, and dense greenery—that’s a feast for the eyes and a calming dose of nature. Second, the diverse activities—from boat rides and swims to enjoying a lakeside meal—offer a well-rounded experience in just a single day.

One notable consideration is the weather-dependent nature of the trip. The boats are open, so if you’re visiting in winter or on a day with unfavorable weather, you might find the experience less comfortable. Lastly, the lunch—while generally well-received—can be small in portion and sometimes served cold, especially in less warm months.

This experience suits those who love outdoor adventures, scenic boat rides, and authentic local environments. If you like spending your days connecting with nature in a relaxed setting, this trip could be just right for you.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Cruise past cliffs, forests, and crystal-clear waters—perfect for photography and peaceful moments.
• Multiple Swim Stops: Swim in the small canyon and the Big Grand Canyon, making it a refreshing escape.
• Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy a lakeside lunch with grilled fish or chicken, salads, and local flavors.
• Expert Guidance: Guides speak multiple languages, adding to the comfort and understanding of your journey.
• Flexible Duration: The trip lasts from 5 to 7.5 hours, with options for different start times.
• Good Value: Includes transportation, meals, guide, and boat trips—offering a comprehensive day out for a fair price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Green Canyon Day Trip

Starting the Day: From Your Hotel to the Green Waters

Most tours kick off with hotel pickup in Antalya, Belek, Alanya, or Side. The comfortable bus ride to the Oymapinar Dam Harbor—where the adventure begins—is usually smooth and scenic. Expect about a 1-hour transfer, giving you a chance to take in the Turkish countryside along the way. The tour provider generally reaches out with specific pickup times after booking, so be ready a few minutes early at your hotel’s outer door.

The Green Canyon: A Landscape of Wonder

Once at the harbor, you’ll board a modern catamaran designed for open-air comfort and weather resilience. The boat trip is the core of the tour—lasting around 1.5 to 2 hours before noon. The vessel’s open area means you’ll enjoy unobstructed views, feeling the breeze and hearing the gentle lapping of water against the boat.

Reviews praise the expert guides who are multilingual and knowledgeable, making the trip both fun and informative. One reviewer mentioned their captain was “very funny” and multilingual, which adds a personal touch to the ride. Expect to see towering cliffs, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters that make every photo look like a postcard.

Swims and Fishings in the Canyon Waters

A key highlight is the chance to swim in the small canyon area—an opportunity to cool off and connect with nature. The reviews reflect how much travelers appreciated this part: “swimming and fishing were really awesome,” one said. The water is described as cool and refreshing, perfect for a quick dip after some sightseeing.

The boat stops at two main areas: first in the small canyon, then later in the Big Grand Canyon after lunch. These are idyllic spots to float in calm waters surrounded by steep cliffs and greenery, offering both relaxation and photo opportunities.

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Lunch with a View—Lakeside Dining

After the morning cruise, you’ll head to a lakeside restaurant for lunch. The typical meal features grilled fish or chicken, salads, and a side of macaroni or rice, with appetizers to start. Many reviews mention the delicious flavor and the exceptional setting—being seated by the water makes the meal memorable.

A common criticism is the portion size, or in some cases, food served cold—especially in the winter months or if the weather turns chilly. One reviewer pointed out that “the food isn’t something we would eat,” but still acknowledged that the scenery and boat trip made it worthwhile.

The Afternoon Cruise and Relaxation

Post-lunch, you’ll reboard the boat to explore more of the Green Canyon’s serenity. The afternoon trip lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you more time for swimming or just soaking up the peaceful landscape. Soft drinks are provided on the boat, making it easy to stay refreshed.

Extra Stops and Shopping

The tour often includes optional shopping stops, which add a bit of local flavor or souvenirs, but are not compulsory. This flexibility allows you to fulfill your needs or simply relax without pressure.

Returning to Your Hotel

The day wraps up with a comfortable transfer back to your starting point. The entire experience typically lasts between 5 to 7.5 hours, depending on your selected start time and pace.

What Travelers Are Saying

Several reviews highlight the value of the trip—considering the included boat rides, meals, and guidance, many feel it’s a good deal. Gyorgy raved about the “exceptional” experience, pointing out the crew’s friendliness and multilingual skills, which made the journey more enjoyable. Dace appreciated the relaxing music, scenic views, and overall peaceful vibe, calling the experience “great for everyone,” including kids and adults.

Kevin shared a heartwarming story about meeting a photographer whose images inspired him to consider wedding photos—highlighting the personal connections that can happen during this trip. Conversely, some mention minor inconveniences like stairs up to the restaurant or cold food during winter, but these are relatively small compared to the overall beauty and experience.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go

• Duration and Timing: The trip lasts from 5 to 7.5 hours, with flexible start times. Check availability to find a schedule that suits you.
• Transport: Hotel pickup and drop-off are usually included if you choose the transfer option. Otherwise, the meeting point is at the Green Canyon facility, which offers free parking.
• Weather Considerations: The boats are open-air, so dress accordingly. In colder months, wearing warm clothes is advised, as some guests might find the air chilly.
• Meals: Meals are served in designated restaurants, but the quality and temperature can vary depending on weather. Hot drinks can help if the food is cold.
• What to Bring: Pack a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for the swim stops.
• Language: Guides speak multiple languages, ensuring clear communication and fun insights.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users.

Is This Tour Right For You?

If you crave a nature escape, enjoy boat rides, and want a relaxing day immersed in stunning scenery, this trip is a good pick. The mix of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural flavor makes it appealing for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Keep in mind the weather and the level of physical activity—it’s mostly about enjoying the outdoors and water.

For travelers on a budget, the trip offers good value—covering transportation, meals, guide service, and multiple boat rides. However, if you’re seeking a more structured or indoor experience, this might not be the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the trip last?
The experience takes between 5 and 7.5 hours, depending on your chosen schedule and pace.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the transfer option, your hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear to enjoy the swimming stops comfortably.

Can I buy souvenirs or photos?
Yes, shopping stops are included, and you can also purchase photos taken during the trip, though prices are not detailed in the info.

Is the food served at lunch good?
Most reviews say the food is tasty, especially the grilled fish or chicken, but portion sizes can vary, and it might be served cold in colder weather.

Are there any physical limitations?
The tour involves some walking and stairs to reach the restaurant, so it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with difficulty climbing stairs.

What’s the weather like?
Weather varies seasonally; in winter, it can be chilly and windy on the boat, so dress accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Green Canyon day trip offers a well-balanced mix of spectacular scenery, engaging water activities, and authentic local cuisine. It’s an excellent way to see Turkey’s natural beauty without straying too far from the coast. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or simply want a peaceful escape, the trip provides a good chance to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

While not perfect—some may find the meals small or the weather chilly—the overall experience is appreciated for its stunning views, friendly guides, and value for money. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a relaxed yet active day immersed in nature, making memories in a setting that’s as beautiful as it is tranquil.

If you’re ready for a day of boat rides, swimming, and scenic landscapes, this tour could be a highlight of your Turkish holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: